Goosen joins roster of council candidates

More council candidates are coming forward as the nomination period opened Tuesday in Chilliwack for the Nov. 19 local election.

Construction business owner Gerry Goosen said his goal is to get active locally and involved in making Chilliwack “grow successful” with solid business management.

Goosen is 53, and married with four children.

“I’m willing to listen and discuss Chilliwack best interests with residents,” he said.

Goosen has lived in Chilliwack since 1976, and said he supports “traditional” values and “responsible” city management.

The former dairy farmer said he favours long-term downtown development and fostering a safe environment for children.

The Chilliwack secondary grad was a volunteer firefighter in Rosedale for 13 years.

Aside from Goosen, first-time candidates Dick Harrington, Garth Glassel, Ken Popove and Ron Wedel have also stated they are running for city council.

Sharon Gaetz confirmed she is running for re-election as Chilliwack mayor, and councillors Sue Attrill, Ken Huttema, and Stewart MacLean said they will also stand for re-election.

Coun. Pat Clark will not be running again, and Coun. Chuck Stam said he will announce his intentions on Oct. 12.

There’s been some speculation that the Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce president might make a bid for a council seat. Jason Lum was publicly seeking the advice of friends and family on Twitter this week about the prospect of his running, but he has yet to declare officially.

Nomination packages came out on Oct. 4 for the local election for city mayor, six city councillors, seven school district trustees and five Cultus Lake Park Board commissioners.

The nomination period ends on Oct. 14, with the declaration of all the candidates.